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Estradiol, mass concentration (serum/plasma)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of estradiol, a key female sex hormone, in your blood. Estradiol helps regulate menstrual cycles, supports reproductive health, and influences bone and cardiovascular health.

Quick summary

["Estradiol levels can help diagnose hormonal imbalances or track treatment effectiveness."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
31176-1
Short code
Estradiol Amn-mCnc
Synonyms
Estradiol Amn-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
fluid
Container
Sterile tube
Units
N/A
Ref low
20
Ref high
400
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82670
SNOMED
300919004
Specimen volume
2-5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
300
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order an estradiol test to check for conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), menopause symptoms, or hormonal imbalances. It can also be used during fertility treatments or to monitor hormone replacement therapy.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours if the test involves a blood draw. If you’re taking certain medications (like birth control), let your provider know.

What Happens During the Test?

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis using a sensitive technique to measure estradiol concentration.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to general reference ranges, but individual ranges can vary. Low levels may indicate early menopause or hormonal deficiencies, while high levels could signal conditions like ovarian tumors or certain medications.

Reference range

Premenopausal: 20-400 pg/mL; Postmenopausal: <30 pg/mLN/A

Specimen: fluid

For females: inform if menstrual cycle status. For certain tests, timing within menstrual cycle may matter.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Estradiol plays a vital role in reproductive health, bone density, and cardiovascular function. Abnormal levels may signal underlying conditions requiring further evaluation, such as thyroid disorders, adrenal issues, or genetic factors.

Short name

Estradiol Level

Frequently asked questions

What causes estradiol levels to change?
Estradiol fluctuates naturally due to age, menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or menopause. Certain medications (e.g., birth control, steroids), medical conditions (e.g., PCOS, thyroid disorders), or lifestyle factors (e.g., smoking, obesity) can also affect levels.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Follow-up with your provider if you have questions about your specific results.
Can diet or exercise affect estradiol levels?
Yes—diet high in phytoestrogens (e.g., soy products), caffeine, or alcohol may influence hormone levels. Regular exercise supports hormonal balance, but sudden changes in activity should be discussed with your provider.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy